Jamaica Bay is one of the main way-points for east coast migrating birds in the spring and fall. The bay is truly New York City's largest remaining coastal habitat which is comprised of navigable waterways, tidal creeks, mud flats, salt marsh and upland habitat. Much of the bays natural features are protected as part of the Gateway National Recreation Area; the only urban National Park in the United States.
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Not far from our dock you'll find the majority of aquatic bird species within a network of different habitats. Most notable is the JoCo Marsh, the largest section of original salt marsh remaining in the bay.
"JoCo Marsh, the biggest and best marsh in the bay..." -Don Riepe, Jamaica Bay Guardian for the American Littoral Society |
Our route includes Rockaway Community Park and Dubos Point Wildlife Sanctuary which boasts many raptors and songbirds in its combined 300+ acre mixed habitat. We sail to prime locations for the best chance to view the bays wildlife. In summer, jumping fish and turtles are common sights as well as the intriguing horseshoe crabs, described as "living fossils".
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Sunrise is the best time to view Jamaica Bays migrating bird population. Getting on water in the early morning is a peaceful and invigorating way to start the day. If the wind is too light to sail we will make way using our small outboard motor.
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TIME
1.5 hours
RATE
$50 per person
1.5 hours
RATE
$50 per person
*Make it a private tour
and rent entire boat
for only $200
Holds 6 passengers
and rent entire boat
for only $200
Holds 6 passengers
For optimal wildlife viewing, our schedule is designed around the high tide cycle when it coincides with sunrise times. High tide allows us to get in closer to the marshes and sunrise is feeding time for most birds. Departure times will vary from week to week based on the natural cycles. Alternatively, sunset hours are also feeding time for many birds. We offer sunset tours, as well. |